Lyricist and poet Manoj Muntashir took a stand against AR Rahman’s recent statements regarding perceived communal prejudice in the Hindi film industry. Speaking to IANS, Muntashir squarely rejected the assertion that the industry has been shaped by discrimination or a notable shift in influence in the past several years. Rahman’s earlier comments noted that his professional opportunities in the Hindi film sphere have slowed over the last eight years, attributing this to a “power shift” and “communal” politics present in the entertainment industry.
Directly addressing Rahman’s position, Manoj cited prominent figures from cinema and Indian culture as evidence. He remarked, “This is a country whose biggest superstars are Salman Khan, Shah Rukh Khan and Aamir Khan. Its most celebrated writers and poets include Javed Akhtar, Sahir Ludhianvi and Majrooh Sultanpuri. This is also a country where the cricket team was captained by Mohammad Azharuddin. I don’t believe there is any discrimination in our industry.”
Continuing his argument, Manoj pointed to the range of names found in film credits as a tangible sign of religious and community plurality. He said, “In any Hindi film, at any time, just read the opening and end credits. You will see a long list of names, almost 250 people. If you look closely, you notice a clear pattern. I openly challenge anyone to pick any random film and show me where one particular religion has been given special importance while others were ignored. You will never find anything like that.”
Manoj maintained a respectful tone toward Rahman. He further clarified his disagreement and said he doesn’t feel like things have drastically changed in the last few years. “We respect AR Rahman deeply and are very proud that he belongs to our country. At the same time, with complete respect, we have the right to disagree, and I completely disagree with the claim being made, especially the suggestion that something has changed in the last eight years. I don’t understand why that time period is being highlighted,” he said.
Muntashir even talked about the changing trends at the box office, referring to how the audience has started to love cinema like never before. The popular lyricist pointed to the broad audience acceptance of diverse talent. He said, “In the last eight years, films like Pathaan and Jawan have broken all box office records. This country has a big heart and soul. It does not judge its artists, it love them. If you do good work, people lift you on their shoulders. Sometimes they get upset and scold you, but that closeness comes from love.”
He then elaborated on the connection between artists and society in India. Muntashir said, “That is the relationship between this country and its artists. Any kind of discrimination, of any sort, I completely refuse to believe. This inclusiveness is our identity.” The lyricist’s comments concentrated on unity and social acceptance as core features of both the Hindi film industry and Indian society overall.
Rahman’s earlier remarks about the Hindi film industry have fuelled widespread debate about inclusion and industry culture. His reference to a “power shift” and “communal” politics has received broad media attention and varied responses.
Amid responses and criticism, the Oscar-winning music composer earlier issued a video message online clarifying his intentions and expressing regret if his words were painful.
– Ends
‘ The preceding article may include information circulated by third parties ’
‘ Some details of this article were extracted from the following source www.indiatoday.in ’
